1.20 Crore Fake Khatas in Karnataka Exposed: A Step Towards Transparency with e-Khata
In a significant move to combat corruption and streamline property registrations, Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda revealed that around 1.20 crore properties in the state were registered using fraudulent khatas. Addressing concerns raised by MLC Shashil G Namoshi in the Legislative Council, Gowda highlighted the progress made in the issuance of e-khatas, a digital initiative aimed at curbing irregularities and boosting transparency.
Faster e-Khata Processing Now Possible
Minister Gowda acknowledged earlier delays in issuing e-khatas, with only 200 being generated daily in the initial phases. However, the process has now been streamlined, enabling government agencies to issue up to 3,000 e-khatas per day.
The e-khata system, introduced to integrate property documents with khatas, started in 2006, initially focusing on agricultural lands. Over the years, it has expanded to include other property types, ensuring greater accuracy and security in property ownership records.
The Scale of Fraudulent Khatas
The extent of fraudulent khatas is staggering:
- Bengaluru: Approximately 15 lakh properties have forged khatas.
- Village-Panchayat Level: Around 90 lakh khatas are affected.
- Municipalities: Another 30 lakh fraudulent khatas have been identified.
These forgeries were reportedly created at data-entry shops and registered at sub-registrar offices. Gowda emphasized that integrating property documents with e-khatas aims to eliminate these forgeries, reduce corruption, and increase state revenue.
Legal Challenges and Revenue Growth
The Minister’s statements come amidst a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) being heard by the Karnataka High Court, which challenges the mandatory adoption of e-khatas under the BBMP’s e-Aasthi scheme. Despite the legal challenges, the state has seen significant financial benefits from property registrations.
For the 2023-24 financial year, the Department of Stamps and Registration collected ₹20,287 crore in revenue, reflecting a 26% growth compared to Karnataka’s average revenue growth of 11%. By November, the department had already collected ₹15,145 crore, with the growth trend expected to continue above 20% by the fiscal year-end.
A Path Towards Transparency
The e-khata initiative represents Karnataka's commitment to a more transparent and efficient property registration system. By addressing long-standing issues like forgery and delays, the state aims to create a more reliable framework for property ownership, ensuring benefits for property owners and the government alike.
Stay tuned for updates as Karnataka continues to revolutionize its property registration system with e-khata!